Wynstone Golf Club News

September 1, 2011

Golden Bear returns to Wynstone, the Only Private Nicklaus Signature Course in Illinois

Video produced by LinksVideo.net for Chicago District Golfer TV

Jack Nicklaus, golf legend and pre-eminent golf course designer, visited Wynstone Golf Club in North Barrington on Wednesday, August 17, 2011. The Golden Bear designed the course at Wynstone, which opened in 1989, and reviewed the course to evaluate the growth and maturity of his creation.

Nicklaus was excited to have the opportunity to see Wynstone since last visiting the course in 1991.

“When we designed Wynstone we had to create a ‘now’ golf course, meaning that the course had to be ready to play on Day One,” Nicklaus said. “Members and residents would not have to wait five or 10 years for maturity. I take great pride in seeing the course look so good today and to see how well it’s been cared for.”

Nicklaus spent the morning touring the course with members of Wynstone Golf Club as well as Superintendent Ben McGargill and Head Golf Professional Andy Phelan.

“My philosophy when designing golf courses these days is to make the courses more relevant to the average player, with a blend of longer and shorter holes,” he added. “Even though this course can play up to 7,000 yards, Wynstone has a nice blend of holes. When Wynstone was being built, many golfers were still playing with wound balls, steel shafts and wood drivers (the Golden Bear actually used a persimmon wood driver to win his final Masters in 1986, the year the agreement was signed for him to design Wynstone). One of the reasons I like to revisit my courses is to recommend changes to adjust to the advances in the technology of the game.”

“Today was a really special day!” said Wynstone member and club president Brian Husselbee. “Jack spent several hours looking over his magnificent golf course and provided us with incredible insight into his design thoughts. We are so fortunate to have a living legend that cares so much about our club.”

After touring the golf course, Nicklaus dined with more than 200 members and shared some wonderful stories. He also signed numerous photos, hats and pin flags (as well as four bottles of his special Jack Nicklaus Reserve Cabernet) which were sold at a silent auction with proceeds to benefit various charitable organizations.

Wynstone Golf Club is a private country club located in North Barrington. In addition to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, it features a gracious colonial-revival clubhouse with indoor and outdoor dining venues that highlight the Nicklaus course, six lighted tennis courts and a beautiful aquatic complex.